9 Key Steps and Resources to Help in the Search for Affordable Housing
September 24, 2025
Finding affordable housing often takes time, persistence, and patience. These nine steps won’t solve the shortage of available housing, but they will give you practical tools to organize your search and make the process more manageable.
1. Start with a budget.
Begin by figuring out how much you can safely afford to spend on rent each month. A common guideline is to aim for about 30% of your monthly income, but in today’s housing market many households, especially along the Front Range, find themselves spending more. If that’s true for you, you’re not alone.
Think of 30% as a reference point rather than a rule. Try sketching out two versions of your budget:
- Your “ideal” budget, based on the 30% benchmark.
- Your “realistic” budget, based on what you can manage once you factor in essentials like food, transportation, childcare, and health costs.
Even if your rent ends up taking a bigger share of your income, having these numbers in front of you can help you make more informed choices and spot tradeoffs—like whether paying a little more to live closer to work might save money on commuting.
2. Understand Area Median Income (AMI).
Knowing your AMI matters because it determines which affordable housing programs and units you qualify for. Affordable housing rent is often tied to your income and the number of people in your household. Properties may advertise units at “30% AMI” or “50% AMI,” which means the rent is set for households earning that percentage of the area’s median income. AMI differs by county and household size.
For example, if the AMI for a four-person household is $80,000, then a unit at 50% AMI is priced for families of four making $40,000 or less. A smaller or larger household will have a different income threshold. Each county publishes AMI charts that break down income limits by household size so you can see what you qualify for.
To learn more about AMI visit the State of Colorado’s Department of Local Affairs website.
3. Gather your documents.
Most affordable housing applications require proof of income, photo ID, rental history, and references. Some programs may also ask for recent pay stubs, bank statements, or tax returns. Having these ready in one folder (physical or digital) makes applying much less stressful and can speed things up when openings pop up.
4. Search multiple sources.
No single website or agency lists every affordable unit, so casting a wide net gives you the best chance of finding an opening. Start with online affordable housing databases, but also check local nonprofit organizations, housing authorities, property management companies, and even community bulletin boards. Some properties only advertise through their own websites or email lists, so it helps to go beyond the obvious places.
To stay organized, keep a running list or spreadsheet of where you’ve looked, application deadlines, and contact info. That way you’re not doubling efforts, and you can quickly follow up when new openings pop up.
5. Ask about income-based or lower-cost units.
When reaching out to property managers or landlords, don’t just ask if an apartment is available, ask if they offer special rental options. Some affordable units are never widely advertised, so speaking up can reveal hidden openings.
Be sure to ask specifically about:
- Affordable housing units set aside for lower-income households
- Income-based rent options, where rent adjusts to your income
- Subsidized apartments supported by government or nonprofit programs
Even if nothing is open today, you’ll learn which properties do participate in affordable housing programs, so you know where to focus your energy next.
6. Get on waitlists.
Because demand is so high, most affordable housing programs and properties maintain waitlists. These lists can be long, but don’t be discouraged, getting your name on them is one of the most important steps you can take. Apply as early as possible, and don’t limit yourself to just one property or program. The more waitlists you join, the more chances you’ll have when openings come up
Keep track of which lists you’ve applied to and update your contact information regularly, so you don’t miss your turn. Some waitlists move faster than expected, and opportunities can disappear quickly if you’re hard to reach.
7. Reach out for support.
You don’t have to navigate this process alone. Call 2-1-1 Colorado or connect with a local housing navigator such Colorado Housing Search . These services can point you toward open units, help explain eligibility rules, and guide you through the application process. Sometimes they also know about short-term programs or local nonprofits that aren’t widely advertised.
8. Be proactive and check back.
Affordable units often fill quickly. If you don’t hear back within one week, follow up with the property manager to confirm your application is complete. Re-check listings often, some update daily, and don’t hesitate to reach out again if a unit becomes available. Staying visible keeps you on their radar.
9. Consider different housing options.
Flexibility can expand your options. Look into shared housing, smaller units, or areas slightly outside of your first-choice neighborhood. Even moving a few miles can sometimes make a big difference in affordability.
Finding affordable housing can feel overwhelming, but taking it step by step makes the process more manageable. By setting a budget, understanding eligibility, staying organized, and reaching out for support, you’ll put yourself in the best position to find a place that works for you.
Ready to take the next step? View our guide to Affordable Housing Providers with Units on the Front Range to start connecting with properties in your area.
